Who’s leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race? Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and others are making headlines in women’s basketball.
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying storylines of the season. With big names like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese delivering highlight reels week after week, fans can’t stop debating who deserves the crown. Add in rising talents like Kamilla Cardoso and Rickea Jackson, and the rookie class is deeper and more competitive than ever. Let’s break down where things stand so far in this wild race.
What Makes the 2025 WNBA Rookie Class So Special?
The hype around the 2025 class isn’t just media noise — it’s backed by numbers, TV ratings, and undeniable on-court impact. Here’s why this year’s rookies are turning heads:
- Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking shooting range
- Angel Reese’s double-double consistency
- Kamilla Cardoso’s interior dominance
- Social media buzz and rising endorsements
- Historic rookie TV viewership numbers
This isn’t your typical rookie season — it’s a movement reshaping the future of women’s basketball.
Caitlin Clark: The Spotlight Magnet
Iowa’s Queen Goes Pro
Caitlin Clark came into the league with historic expectations, and she’s lived up to the hype — mostly. Here’s what makes her a top contender:
-
Stats (as of July 2025):
- 18.7 PPG
- 6.1 APG
- 38.2% from 3
- Impact: Clark’s presence has boosted Indiana Fever’s attendance and viewership by 60% over last season.
- Challenges: Adjusting to physical defense, turnovers, and shot selection under pressure.
Still, the energy she brings and the headlines she generates are unmatched. Whether it’s buzzer-beaters or postgame mic drops, Caitlin is always in the spotlight.
Angel Reese: The Double-Double Queen
“Bayou Barbie” Brings the Hustle
Angel Reese isn’t just a marketing sensation — she’s been a statistical machine for the Chicago Sky. Here’s why she’s neck and neck with Clark:
-
Stats (as of July 2025):
- 14.2 PPG
- 11.3 RPG
- 48% FG
- Defensive anchor and one of the league’s top rebounders
- Off-court: Leading all rookies in endorsement deals with brands like Reebok and Amazon
She’s also consistently winning fans with her hustle, confidence, and fiery social media comebacks.
Kamilla Cardoso: The Underrated Threat
Kamilla might not have the same media frenzy around her, but don’t sleep on her game:
- 11.5 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 2.1 BPG
- Elite rim protector for the Chicago Sky
- Developing into one of the league’s top post threats
If she continues her upward trajectory, she could pull off an upset in the rookie of the year voting.
Rickea Jackson & The Sleeper Picks
While Clark and Reese dominate headlines, players like Rickea Jackson (Los Angeles Sparks) and Jacy Sheldon (Dallas Wings) are putting up solid numbers.
Rickea Jackson
- 13.1 PPG
- Athletic wing with great shot creation
- Fan-favorite in LA, rising rapidly in jersey sales
These players might not win ROTY, but they’re crucial to the depth and drama of this rookie class.
Head-to-Head: Clark vs. Reese
| Player | Points Per Game | Rebounds | Assists | FG % | 3PT % | Fan Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | 18.7 | 4.2 | 6.1 | 41.5% | 38.2% | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Angel Reese | 14.2 | 11.3 | 1.8 | 48.0% | N/A | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
Both bring different strengths — Clark is flash and finesse, Reese is grit and grind.
What Do the Fans Think? (Hint: It’s Heated)
Check out any WNBA Twitter thread or TikTok comment section and you’ll see:
- “Clark is the future!”
- “Reese has that dog in her!”
- “Give it to Cardoso, she’s the most consistent!”
Fan bases are deeply passionate, and Clark vs. Reese has become the WNBA’s version of LeBron vs. KD.
TV Ratings & Viewership Surge in 2025
Let’s talk numbers:
- 2025 WNBA viewership is up 52% YoY
- Fever and Sky games are consistently breaking streaming records
- All-Star voting broke the previous record by 35%, largely due to rookie campaigns
Clearly, the rookie class is driving a cultural and commercial wave.
Endorsements & Off-Court Drama
From shoe deals to social media shade, the 2025 rookies are as visible off the court as on it.
- Clark has a Nike deal and her own shoe line in development
- Reese is the face of Reebok and has a major Amazon docuseries coming soon
- There’s been no shortage of trash talk and subtle jabs between rookies online
This drama adds spice to an already thrilling ROTY race.
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 Odds (As of July)
| Player | Odds to Win ROTY |
|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | -125 |
| Angel Reese | +180 |
| Kamilla Cardoso | +350 |
| Rickea Jackson | +750 |
Vegas oddsmakers still favor Clark — but it’s a long season.
Who Deserves It? Our Take
If the season ended today, Caitlin Clark probably edges out Reese in the ROTY voting — but not by much. Reese’s consistent double-doubles and overall presence make this a legit two-way race. The deciding factor? Team success and how each player performs down the stretch.
Final Thoughts: The Future is Now
The WNBA rookie of the year 2025 race is more than a stat battle — it’s a turning point for women’s basketball. With rising viewership, social buzz, and the energy these rookies bring, the league is entering a golden era.
So whether you’re Team Clark, Team Reese, or just love good hoops — buckle up. The second half of the season is going to be wild.
What’s Your Take?
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FAQs
1. Who is leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year race in 2025?
As of July, Caitlin Clark is the frontrunner, but Angel Reese is close behind with strong stats and impact.
2. How many double-doubles has Angel Reese recorded in 2025?
Reese has over 12 double-doubles midway through the season, one of the highest among rookies.
3. Has Caitlin Clark lived up to the hype in the WNBA?
Yes and no — while she’s had highlight moments and strong numbers, she’s still adjusting to pro-level physicality.
4. Are WNBA viewership numbers up in 2025?
Yes, viewership has surged by 50%+, largely driven by this year’s hyped rookie class.
5. What rookie has the highest endorsement value in 2025?
Angel Reese currently leads all rookies in endorsement deals and social media engagement.
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